Johannes storms to victory

LIMBA MUPETAMIHelalia Johannes ran the race of her life yesterday to break the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon women's record, with a time of 2:29.28. She shattered the previous record, held by Kenyan athlete Isabella Ochichi (2:30.20). Johannes was followed home Failana Matanga of Tanzania in a time of 2:30:00. Urge Diro of Ethiopia came third in a time of 2:30:31.The 38-year old Namibian improved on last year's second place, when she finished six seconds shy of the winner. Johannes has been in fine form this year, after winning a gold medal at the Gold Coast-hosted Commonwealth Games.A veteran of multiple championships and city marathons, Johannes' best run prior to the Australian games was in London in 2012, when she ran a Namibian record of 2:26:09 for a 12th place finish.She also ended fifth at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. She is now heavily tipped to walk away with 2018 sports women of the year accolade at the upcoming MTC/Namibian Sports Commission Sports Awards.In the men's race yesterday, Stephen Mokoka became the first South African in eight years to win Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. Mokoka stormed to victory in 2:08:29, also a new record. Mokoka broke away from the quality field at 33km and controlled the race to the line, taking 10 seconds off the previous record held by Asefa Negewu. The winner had too much in the tank for Albert Korir, who had to settle for second in 2:09.02 with Philemon Kacherian rounding out the top three, 11 seconds behind. Mokoka also claimed the title of South African marathon champion.Results from the 10km race were as follows:Men's results - first place went to Precious Mashele (29:10), followed by Jeromy Andreas (29:25) and Sipho Mbanjwa (29:46).Women's results - Irvette van Zyl took first place with a time of 32:48, followed by Joan Nyahora (33:54) and Carmie Prinsloo (35:20).The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon attracts professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts from all over the continent and the world. With over 23 international running clubs, including a world-class elite field of athletes and over 11 000 runners in attendance, the marathon is Africa's most prestigious marathon event.Johannes and Mokoka walked away with bonuses of R100 000 each, in addition to their R265 000 first prizes.

Johannes storms to victory

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-25

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Johannes storms to victory

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-25

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